Submitted by the Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner

Washington State Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler issued fines in October totaling $103,950 against insurance companies, agents and brokers who violated state insurance regulations.

Kaiser Foundation Health Plan of Washington, Seattle, was fined $30,000, and Kaiser Foundation Health Plan of Washington Options, Seattle, was fined $50,000. The companies erroneously sent a letter intended for Medicare Advantage Plan members only to nearly 168,000 members of its commercial plans in February 2017. The letter caused the members to think their health coverage had changed and misstated the name of the insurer.

Kaiser Permanente Washington is the only insurance company that offers plans to individuals in San Juan County.

Everest Reinsurance Co., American Service Insurance Co. and Markel American Insurance Co. were also fined for other infractions, as well as insurance brokers and agents.

Kreidler’s office oversees Washington’s insurance industry to ensure that companies, agents and brokers follow state laws. The Office of the Insurance Commissioner publishes disciplinary orders against companies, agents and brokers. Consumers can also look up complaints against insurance companies.

For an insurance question or complaint, contact Kreidler’s consumer advocates online or by phone at 800-562-6900.